We have just returned from an extended long weekend in beautiful Far North Queensland. Those who follow the blog would know that we love this northern part of our home state and have been lucky to visit a number of times in the last few years. It is the diverse natural landscapes that continue to draw us to this part of the world.

The flight up into Cairns is something special in itself. On a clear day as you can spot the coral reefs out the window as you head up the coast (Can you spot one in the pic below?).

Our day trip to Mossman Gorge was within easy reach of Cairns, at just over an hour drive each way from the CBD. This southern section of the Daintree National Park, is just north of Port Douglas. With a brand new and very impressive visitor centre, it is very easy to find and very accessible. Parking at the visitor centre is free and although you can walk into the national park on foot for free, you can also choose to pay $8 for a return shuttle bus to the gorge. They do not advertise that you can walk in for free however don’t be fooled – this is perfectly OK. Just ask at the visitor centre and they give you a map (they say it takes about 45 mins however we think the mostly flat walk would take a fit person under half an hour. If you’re not use to the tropical heat however remember it can get hot). So pick the bus, or use your legs and head into some of the oldest living rainforest on earth!

On the way into the gorge from the visitors centre, you will pass the local community of Kuku Yalanji people. For thousands of years these people have held a very special connection to the gorge and surrounding landscape. It is a privilege that the community shares this beautiful place with visitors and you can very quickly see why this place is so special to them. If you are wanting to know more about the local people or the indigenous culture in general, the visitor centre offers range of experiences such as guided dreamtime walks.

The Mossman River flows through the forest and is so crystal clear you can see every rock along the bottom. Ancient rainforest towers over both sides of the river as it cascades over rocks. Headed along a quiet path downstream near the bus drop off, We found a little rock and a view all to ourselves to sit on and enjoy our packed lunch.

After a bite to eat, we headed to ‘the beach’ to join other visitors and some local kids for a swim. The water was cool and refreshing. A swim in the clam waters of the swimming area is not to be missed. It is croc free – making is one a the few safe places to swim in the area. Don’t be put off by the initial chill – it is completely worth it! The locals suggest picking a rock tat is drenched in sun, and head out into the river to lay or sit on. We picked one rock each and just quietly took in the beauty around us.

After a dip, we headed off on the short (and easy) loop trail and I (Mary) was overwhelmed with the ‘specialness’ of the place. Take the time to look around and soak up the details. You’ll find orchids, dangling out of trees, strangler figs slowly torturing their host tree, intricately twisted roots and branches that beautifully display the struggle of life in the low light of the forest floor. A favourite to notice is the fungus that grows under logs, so many different shapes and sizes. Take your time and enjoy!